Middle Fell & Seatallan

Walked on 17/11/2023

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Seatallan – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 8 km Total Ascent: 726 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes Start Time: 10:25

Well, 2 walks in 2 years – not bad eh! What fantastic weather this morning as well, much better than I was expecting. When I got to Wasdale the skies were clear and sunny but the cloud was building up over the high fells for the duration of the walk and it eventually caught us up on Seatallan. I can’t grumble at all with that though as it was really quite warm in the glorious sunshine. As ever, the Western side of the Lake District was very quiet and there was hardly a soul around.
Unbelievably, the last time I walked Middle Fell was 2015 and Seatallan 2014!

Wow, what a surprise in Wasdale this morning! I thought conditions would be okay but always a treat top see it this clear.

Just follow the path from Greendale.

A light dusting of snow on Scafell.

It was really quite warm in the sun as indicated by Fletcher's tongue.

The cloud was starting to build throughout the walk, at least it was clear when I made it to the top of Middle Fell, here looking across Wast Water to the Scafells from the summit cairn.

Yewbarrow and Great Gable are still clear but look at the cloud building to the right of this photo.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable beyond Yewbarrow.

It was gorgeous up here today and no-one about.

Strike a pose Fletcher.

You can never tire of this view....

...fabulous.

Looking towards the West Cumbrian coast.

Heading along the Middle Fell summit plateau.

Haycock.

Fletcher is trying to find the best route down and then which way to climb Seatallan.

The Scafells - gone!

This is a steep climb to Seatallan, Fletcher my lad.

Looking down on Middle Fell and Greendale Tarn.

Seatallan summit - we are being enveloped in cloud now.

The head of Blengdale.

We made a direct descent today rather than following the (probably) more usual route to Glade How and Buckbarrow. When I looked at the map I was close to a named, marked stone on the map (Carling Stone). I never noticed anything and have not noticed it before - I wish I had looked at the map and seen it but will make a note for next time.

Perhaps Fletcher knows which one the Carling Stone is!

Greendale Gill.

A gathering.

Middle Fell

Walked on 14/10/2015

Start Point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3.2 miles Total ascent: 525 metres Time taken: 1 hour 45 minutes Start time: 08:30

Weather: Warm and clear. 13°C

The fabulous weather from this week continued today and it was well worth a visit to Wasdale for a walk up to Middle Fell. The light was just perfect and with the colours really starting to show it made for a lovely morning to be walking the fells.

Beautiful early light at Greendale.

Buckbarrow and Casper Gully.

The path and a straight up contrail.

Looking back down - the sky suddenly clouded over for a while from here.

A well earned drink on the climb. This pool always reminds me of Casper, a favourite watering hole of his.

Scafells silhouette.

...and from higher up, the sun lighting up Wast Water.

The summit of Middle Fell.

You may well be bigger than me you young pup but let's see your tongue!

Looking towards the West Cumbrian coast.

Haycock.

Down at Greendale Tarn.

Not quite warm enough for a swim today - the sunshine is deceptive as it was a cool wind.

The descent alongside Greendale Gill.

The classic view of Wasdale.

Middle Fell.

Middle Fell

Walked on 01/05/2015

Start Point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 2.8 miles Total ascent: 525 metres Time taken: 1 hour 30 minutes Start time: 07:15

Weather: Lovely. 5°C

What a fabulous morning it was with really clear air and that ‘good to be alive’ feeling. We had time for a quick walk up to well trodden (by us) Middle Fell, the views from there of the Scafells and the head of Wasdale are simply fantastic.

Beautiful early light at Greendale.

Buckbarrow and Casper Gully.

The path and a straight up contrail.

Looking back down - the sky suddenly clouded over for a while from here.

A well earned drink on the climb. This pool always reminds me of Casper, a favourite watering hole of his.

Scafells silhouette.

...and from higher up, the sun lighting up Wast Water.

The summit of Middle Fell.

You may well be bigger than me you young pup but let's see your tongue!

Looking towards the West Cumbrian coast.

Haycock.

Down at Greendale Tarn.

Not quite warm enough for a swim today - the sunshine is deceptive as it was a cool wind.

The descent alongside Greendale Gill.

The classic view of Wasdale.

Middle Fell.

Middle Fell

Height: 582 metres / 1909 feet Grid reference: NY 15075 07222 Category: The Western Fells

The summit of Middle Fell in winter

Walking the Middle Fell ridge with Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike in view

Middle Fell and Greendale Tarn from the descent of Seatallan

With Joss Naylor on Middle Fell.

Middle Fell

Walked on 15/10/2014

Start Point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3.2 miles Total ascent: 525 metres Time taken: 1 hour 45 minutes Start time: 09:15

Weather: Breezy, cold on top, 12°C

Today was another chance for Fletcher to get out on to the fells, this time on something a little more rugged than previously. Middle Fell is a fantastic walk with great views yet not too long for the youngster. I must say he carried it off with aplomb and I am pleased to report he absolutely loved it. He was fine off the lead, only needed a couple of check words to stay away from the sheep and when we got to the top the pair of them were running around barking madly and playing games. Nice one Fletch!

Early sky at Greendale

The sun lights up Buckbarrow and Casper Gully

The breeze was starting to pick up a bit even on the lower slopes

Fabulous changes in light and shade on the climb to Middle Fell

At the summit the breeze has really picked up!

The view to Yewbarrow and the Scafells from the summit

Close up on the Scafells, those clouds on top were constantly shifting

Sing Fletcher, sing!

Walking the Middle Fell ridge with Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike in view

A different angle on the Scafells

Looking down on Seatallan and Greendale Tarn

Dougal does the route planning

Looking back along the ridge to the summit cairn

Yewbarrow

Descenfding to Greendale Tarn

Haycock and Scoat Fell peer over the top of the col

Descending into Greendale

Middle Fell from Wasdale

The classic view of Wasdale

Greendale Round

Walked on 28/09/2013

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Seatallan – Cat Bields – Glade How – Buckbarrow – Joss Naylor Cairn – Greendale

Distance: 6 miles Total Ascent: 785 metres Time Taken: 4 hours Start Time: 10:00

Weather: Sunny and warm. 20oC

It was a fantastic return to summer weather today with sunshine, blue skies and with the added bonus of being unexpectedly warm. Today I joined up with Skip, Smoky and fell running legend Joss Naylor for a memorable walk around Greendale.

Early morning and the classic view along Wast Water.

Buckbarrow.

Autumn colours coming through.

Joss leads the way (actually I think Dougal was doing most of the leading today - he loved it, running with the pack!) followed by Skip and Smoky.

The view out to sea from the climb to Middle Fell.

One man and his dogs.

Looking across Buckbarrow.

The magnificent view from Middle Fell.

Dougal feeling the heat today.

With Joss Naylor on Middle Fell.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable beyond Yewbarrow.

The Scafells.

Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike.

The view from the steep climb to Seatallan.

Middle Fell and Greendale Tarn.

I think Joss quite liked Dougal-Doo -'Mr Dougal' as he called him!

The view from Seatallan.

The summit of Seatallan.

Looking on Stockdale Head with Caw Fell to the left, Haycock to the right.

Seatallan silhouette.

Heading for Cat Bields. You can see a haze layer out to sea and around Black Combe.

Seatallan from Cat Bields, Great Gable to the distant right.

Cairn on Glade How.

A panoramic view from Buckbarrow.

Joss at the Joss Naylor cairn - he rebuilt this cairn in 2002 to mark the interment of the Queen Mother.

Colourful Greendale.

The view from the descent.

The Screes.

Greendale Gill.

Middle Fell

Walked on 22/02/2013

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3.2 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes Start Time: 09:15

Weather: Cold and overcast. 2°C

It was so cold up there today – to the bone in fact – and not a day for hanging around for too long. Wasdale though, as ever, was beautiful.

Wasdale.

A mono version.

The Scafells from Greendale.

Greendale Gill.

Buckbarrow.

The summit of Middle Fell.

The Scafells.

Kirk Fell, Great Gable and the Scafells over Yewbarrow.

Dougal and Casper on Middle Fell.

It was cold and icy up here.

The fell dog in his natural environment, Haycock beyond.

Seatallan and part frozen Greendale Tarn.

I can hear voices down below.

Greendale Tarn.

Icy Greendale Gill.

I took a wander over by Joss's cairn on the side of Buckbarrow, here looking to Middle Fell.

The Screes and Wast Water.

Heading back down to Greendale.

The Screes panoramic.

Greendale Gill.

Middle Fell

Walked on 30/04/2012

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 2.8 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 20 minutes Start Time: 09:15

Weather: Bright and breezy. 15oC

Different day, different weather! It was about 10 degrees warmer than yesterday when I set off this morning though the wind was still strong in Wasdale. It was a good day for views though as the wind kept blowing those clouds away.

Wasdale - the classic view. There was a bit of a breeze blowing down the lake this morning.

Middle Fell, where I am heading for today.

Buckbarrow from Greendale.

Brown How and Greendale Gill.

Looking towards the west Cumbrian coast across Buckbarrow.

On the climb to Middle Fell, Seatallan and Haycock in view.

Blue skies and loveliness.

The Scafells in mono.

...and a colour version from the summit Middle Fell.

Scoat Fell and Red Pike.

Middle Fell.

A lovely - if breezy - view.

Casper and Dougal demonstrate the strength of the wind today.

Haycock from the steep descent to Greendale Tarn.

Dougal finds the quickest way to Greendale Tarn, a direct route down a grassy rake.

A quick dip for the boys down at the tarn.

Greendale Tarn.

Descending Greendale Gill.

The gorse is in full bloom and (unfortunately) the bracken is starting to unfurl now too. We will soon be head high in the green stuff!

Greendale Round

Walked on 14/11/2011

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Seatallan – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 4.2 miles Total Ascent: 732 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes Start Time: 09:30

Weather: Sunny and bright. 9C

What a beautiful morning it was and although quite hazy down below it did look as though it would be clear higher up and I wasn’t disappointed. The haze layer seemed to roll across from the east during the walk so I think it was a good idea to get out early. Nice to bump into StridingEdge fan David up on Middle Fell today too.

Greendale route map.

Buckbarrow from Greendale.

The path to Middle Fell.

Climbing higher.

Greendale and Greendale Gill.

Buckbarrow from the climb to Middle Fell.

Middle Fell summit ahead.

First sight of the Scafells - wow, beautiful.

The summit of Middle Fell.

The view across Greendale to Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike.

Dougal, ready for action.

Red Pike with Low Tarn visible.

Scafells close up.

A fabulous view from Middle Fell - Kirk Fell, Great Gable, Yewbarrow and The Scafells in view.

Casper is 8 on the 15th - Happy Birthday Casper!

Middle Fell.

Heading along Middle Fell ridge.

It is hazy down below but the views from up here are fabulous.

Dougal and Casper have found someone else to walk with - he must have sandwiches! The steep climb to Seatallan lies ahead.

At the foot of the climb.

Middle Fell and Greendale Tarn and a big layer of haze beyond.

A view of lovely Scoat Tarn flanked by Scoat Fell and Red Pike with Pillar putting in appearance directly above the tarn.

Haycock and Pots of Ashness.

Distant Great Gable.

Spreading haze.

Looking from the summit plateau of Seatallan.

Looking in the other direction, the trig column and cairn clumped together over on the south western side.

The cairn and trig column.

A prefect view of the Scafells from the descent.

That bank of haze seems to be moving closer.

Layers of hazy fells.

Descending to Greendale Tarn below Middle Fell.

Greendale Tarn.

It was lovely down here and unseasonably warm.

The peace was broken by the shouts of three shepherds working the fells with a dozen dogs, one up on Seatallan, one on Middle Fell and one in the Greendale Valley. I think they would have had a couple more willing volunteers as well if they were given half a chance.

Seatallan.

Middle Fell from Greendale.

Yewbarrow and Great Gable.

The view.

Middle Fell

Walked on 09/08/2010

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 2.8 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 20 minutes Start Time: 06:45

Weather: Wet. 15C

It was predicted to be wet today but at least it was still dry when I set of on an early walk up to Middle Fell this morning. It was very dull and overcast though and the rain came just as I dropped down to Greendale Tarn and that made the return leg a damp and squelchy affair to say the least.

Middle Fell route map.

Buckbarrow across the shoulder high Bracken.

Which way to Middle fell Casper?

Buckbarrow and a berry laden Rowan.

Looking back to the Screes - this was the best view I would get of them today!

Close up on the Screes.

Greendale.

Looking over Greendale towards the coast.

It looks a bit murky up there boys.

Casper and Dougal on the summit of Middle Fell.

Greendale Tarn from the direct descent to it - I could hardly make it out through the mist until I was right upon it.

Down at Greendale Tarn.

Dougal Athletic crosses Greendale Gill.

The descent alongside Greendale Gill and it is absolutely chucking it down now.

Cascades on the descent.

Greendale Round

Walked on 26/05/2010

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Seatallan – Cat Bields – Glade How – Buckbarrow – Joss Naylor Cairn – Greendale

Distance: 6 miles Total Ascent: 785 metres Time Taken: 5 hours 30 minutes Start Time: 10:15

Weather: Generally overcast, some sunny spell and showers. 13C

Today was the day of the StridingEdge.net summer 2010 walk around Greendale. I chose a date earlier than usual to try and capture some ‘guaranteed’ decent weather for it, however that didn’t quite materialise! That aside, it was an enjoyable walk with great company and it was good to be able to chat to followers of the site. Up on Buckbarrow, the icing on the cake was bumping into the legendary Joss Naylor who was taking his dogs for a stroll!

Greendale route map.

Wasdale.

Reflected giants.

Buckbarrow from the start of the climb to Middle Fell.

Onward and upward for the group.

Buckbarrow from Middle Fell.

The summit of Middle Fell.

The massed ranks of the StridingEdge walking party on Middle Fell. There are at least one and a half dogs missing in this photo!

The weather rapidly closed in whilst we were on Middle Fell with Seatallan up to the left now covered by cloud. Here, Casper leads the way.

Greendale Tarn...

...a suitable place for a lunch stop.

After lunch, it was onwards once more to Seatallan.

Yewbarrow and The Scafells from the climb.

No, it's definitely not that way.

The only glimpse of Great Gable and Kirk Fell today.

It is a steep climb to Seatallan.

Haycock and Scoat Fell from the northern end of Seatallan.

Casper and Dougal have a rest. Who are all those people? wonders Dougal.

The Scafells were in and out of the clouds.

Heading to the cairn on Cat Bields from Seatallan.

Cat Bields. It was around this time we had a shower and heard the thunder rumbling. Later it was reported that four walkers had been struck by lightning further north in Buttermere and in Borrowdale.

Sunshine on Glade How looking back to Cat Bields.

On the summit of Buckbarrow we bumped into the legendary fell runner Joss Naylor who stopped for a chat. I asked him about the nearby cairn that has become known as the 'Joss Naylor Cairn' and he told me that it was on the site of an ancient cairn and there was reputedly a body beneath!

Portrait of a legend.

The Joss Naylor Cairn looking to Middle Fell.

Looking the other way to Wast Water.

Heading back to Greendale.

Wast Water and The Screes.

A panoramic view of Wast Water and the Screes.

Greendale Gill. The path used to climb Middle Fell earlier is clear to see from here.

Greendale Gill from further down.

Casper and Dougal get a well earned drink in Greendale Gill, Middle Fell behind. We got a well earned drink in The Screes (the pub not the rock formation!).

Middle Fell

Walked on 02/04/2009

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3.5 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Sunny and warm. 16°C.

Wow, what a lovely day today! I was irresistibly drawn back to Wasdale and I’m glad I was, the views were absolutely fantastic. When it is sunny and warm, I must remember to wear a t-shirt. I must remember to wear shorts. I must remember to take sun cream. I must…

Middle Fell route map.

The Wast Water classic view.

Wast Water.

Today's target Middle Fell.

Oh go on then, I couldn't resist another one!

Contrail over Buckbarrow.

Greendale from the climb to Middle Fell.

Buckbarrow Moss and Greendale Gill.

Casper leads the way in the glorious sunshine.

Looking back to Buckbarrow.

Scoat Fell and Red Pike from the summit of Middle Fell.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable beyond Yewbarrow with the Scafells and Wast Water to the right.

Clear as far as the eye can see today.

Lingmell, Scafell Pike - the scene of yesterday's walk - with Scafell to the right.

'Any chance of a haircut yet?'.

Looking across to the coast, Sellafield visible.

Casper living on the edge - he has spotted a place for a drink and a swim down below.

Greendale Tarn and Seatallan (and Casper!).

Haycock.

Red Pike from Middle Fell, Low Tarn visible nestling beneath Gosforth Crag.

All is tranquil down at Greendale Tarn with Haycock peeping above the col.

Greendale Tarn.

Descending alongside Greendale Gill.

Greendale Gill cascades.

The Scafells from Greendale. As it was such a beautiful day, I stopped off at a few places on the way to Bowness - coming soon to a postcard near you...

Blea Tarn.

Slaters Bridge.

Great Cars and Little Langdale Tarn.

Bowness on Windermere - 20C when I was here!

Middle Fell

Walked on 07/04/2008

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Greendale Gill – Greendale Tarn – Middle Fell – Greendale

Distance: 2.8 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Cold with sunny spells and snow showers. 4oC.

There were real winter skies once more over Wasdale this morning with the ever present snow clouds combined with patches of blue and some strong snow showers. I took a slightly unusual route of to Greendale Tarn and from there up to Middle Fell; I traversed the fellside on a little used but good path to the tarn and then made a steep, rough and direct ascent to the summit. There was a thought for Wendy Juster on the summit today too.

Middle Fell looking a bit dull at the start of the walk from Greendale.

Blue skies to the west beyond Buckbarrow.

Looking back along Greendale from the approach to Greendale Tarn.

Sunshine over Seatallan and Greendale Gill.

Greendale Tarn. Haycock is covered by snow clouds.

Haycock, briefly clear of the cloud from the climb to Middle Fell.

The same view a couple of minutes later. A big snow shower coming in.

The summit cairn of Middle Fell is up to the left.

Looking north in the direction of Red Pike.

The Scafells and Wast Water from Middle Fell. There were brilliant winter skies with the snow storms crashing over me like great waves from the high fells whilst above there was still a blue sky.

A close up of Lingmell, Scafell Pike and Scafell. You can still see the snow if you look closely.

Yewbarrow and the Scafells.

Mr. Snowbeard - he can't resist eating the stuff!

Even closer up during a heavy snow shower.

Getting brighter once more.

Red Pike and Yewbarrow, beyond Kirk Fell and Great Gable are just about visible.

The summit of Middle Fell.

Looking across to Seatallan.

Yewbarrow.

Descending towards The Screes and it's still snowing.

The sky over Wasdale.

The summit of Middle Fell.

Looking across Wast Water to The Screes.

Britain's favourite view in mono.

Middle Fell

Walked on 01/02/2008

Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3.5 miles Total Ascent: 525 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 45 minutes

Weather: Cold and strong wind. 4°C.

The weather has been wild in Cumbria over the last couple of days and today was no exception with a very strong wind on the top of Middle Fell today and behind it there is more snow to come. Today was the first time out with the new camera, so there was plenty of messing about with it, although I stuck to the old lens for now until I upgrade that as well.

Wast Water and Wasdale Head.

Looking across Wast Water to The Screes.

Fleeting sunshine on Buckbarrow.

Lingmell and the Scafells across Wasdale.

Casper has a rest on the steep section of the climb to Middle Fell.

Wast Water and The Screes from Middle Fell.

Buckbarrow.

Yewbarrow from the summit of Middle Fell. Beyond, in cloud, are Kirk Fell, Great Gable and The Scafells.

It was a really strong and icy wind up here and the conditions were constantly changing with the clouds fleeting on and off the higher fells across Wasdale.

Red Pike with Low Tarn nestling in the hollow beneath, Kirk Fell and Great Gable are beyond Yewbarrow.

Lingmell, Scafell and Scafell Pike with Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones below.

Yewbarrow.

A close-up on Mickledore between Scafell Pike and Scafell.

Snow topped Kirk Fell and Great Gable emerge from the cloud beyond Yewbarrow.

Scoat Fell in cloud and Red Pike with Low Tarn visible.

All clear to the east now.

The Scafells have emerged from the cloud too.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable.

Casper braves the wind and tries to keep firmly anchored to the ground!

Haycock.

Looking across to Seatallan.

A windblown Greendale Tarn.

On the banks of Greendale Tarn with Haycock peeping over the col.

Falls on Greendale Gill.

Middle Fell

Walked on 21/08/2007

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3 miles Total Ascent: 560 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes

Weather: Sunny. 19oC.

It was lovely and sunny again this morning with the clouds only hanging over the highest fells. It was nice and quiet in Wasdale when I arrived and it remained so throughout the walk. Greendale Tarn really is an idyllic place and well worth a visit on a day such as this.

A cloud covered Scafell and Slight Side from the Birker Fell road, one of the best road views in the Lakes.

...and closer up.

Middle Fell from Wasdale.

Britain's favourite view? Wast Water is a candidate for that on the TV programme of the same name - possibly not this morning as the clouds are down on Great Gable and Lingmell. Does it get your vote?

Heading out for Middle Fell from Greendale.

Buckbarrow and a berry laden Rowan Tree - must be nearly Autumn.

Buckbarrow from the climb to Middle Fell.

Casper and Angus at the summit of Middle Fell.

Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike from the summit. Although it was sunny, there was a stiff breeze at the top...

...as demonstrated by Angus.

Casper.

The summit of Middle Fell. Clear views to the north today.

Clear to the west too, here looking over Buckbarrow to the coast with the Isle of Man visible over Sellafield.

Greendale Tarn and Seatallan.

Greendale Tarn.

A great view of Haycock.

We descended directly and steeply from the summit of Middle Fell down to Greendale Tarn. This view of Haycock is across the col between Seatallan and Middle Fell.

Greendale Tarn.

Nice place for a swim.

The southern end of Greendale Tarn.

Greendale Gill.

Scafell from the descent.

Back to Wasdale with a clearer view of Wast Water.

Blengdale Horseshoe

Walked on 26/02/2007

tart point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Blengdale Forest – Sampson’s Bratfull – Stockdale Moor – Caw Fell – Little Gowder Crag – Haycock – Pots of Ashness – Seatallan –Middle Fell – Greendale

Distance: 12 miles Total Ascent: 1150 metres Time Taken: 5 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Clear with a cool breeze. 10°C.

It turned out to be great weather today and it felt very spring like at times, although the wind was cold on the tops. I completed a walk around Blengdale climbing to Caw Fell by the little visited Stockdale Moor, an interesting way to go just to find out exactly what ‘Sampson’s Bratfull’, marked on the map, was! It was very clear today allowing widespread views as far as Scotland and over to the Isle of Man.

Early (ish) morning in Wasdale.

Buckbarrow.

Middle Fell.

Buckbarrow from further along the road.

Here's a view that won't be like this for long looking at the recently planted trees in the foreground; Haycock and Seatallan from Blengdale Forest.

Haycock, Scoat Fell and Seatallan from the Sergeant Ford crossing of the River Bleng.

Seatallan.

Sampson's Bratfull - stones dropped from the apron of a giant as he strode across the moor, so legend has it. It is the site of an ancient barrow, the area being littered with antiquities and signs of ancient settlements. This view is looking to Ponsonby Fell.

Seatallan from Stockdale Moor.

...and again, the Scafells now coming into view.

Angus and Casper take a breather on the summit of Caw Fell with Pillar, Steeple and Scoat Fell to the left of Little Gowder Crag, centre, and Haycock to the right.

Heading for Little Gowder Crag, a really cold wind blowing across here now.

A glimpse of Ennerdale Water and Ennerdale from Haycock, the wall leading from Little Gowder Crag.

Steeple and Scoat Fell from Haycock, Pillar just visible above the wall at the top of Scoat Fell.

Red Pike above Scoat Tarn with the Scafells beyond.

Steeple from Haycock.

Looking across Ennerdale from Haycock to Herdus and the Loweswater Fells, Scottish mountains clearly visible today across the Solway Firth.

Red Pike and Scoat Tarn.

Another breather for these two on Haycock.

Blengdale - the ridge walked so far is to the right from the forest.

The best view is the other way Angus!

The Scafell range from Haycock - Great End with a touch of snow lingering, Broad Crag, Scafell Pike, Scafell and Slight Side.

Haycock across Pots of Ashness at the start of the steep climb to Seatallan.

Great Gable flanked by Kirk Fell and Yewbarrow from Seatallan.

Caw Fell and Haycock above Stockdale Head.

Casper on Seatallan.

The view to the west from Seatallan.

Middle Fell, the next objective, and Greendale Tarn.

Scafell from Middle Fell.

Scafell Pike.

Scafell Pike, Mickledore and Scafell.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable across Yewbarrow.

Angus and Casper on Middle Fell.

Lingmell and the Scafells at the head of Wast Water.

Tired Casper?

A bit blowy again for Angus on Middle Fell, Yewbarrow and Great Gable beyond.

Blue sky over the Scafells from the descent of Middle Fell.

The Screes across Wast Water looking colourful.

Greendale Round

Walked on 02/11/2006

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Seatallan – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 4.2 miles Total Ascent: 732 metres Time Taken: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weather: Clear and cold, hardly a breath of wind today. 8oC.

It was another cold and clear day today – if possible, it was better than yesterday as there was no wind to chill the bones. This was a lovely round with stunning views and the fells were ours alone for the entire walk.

Morning light on Wast Water looking to Yewbarrow, Great Gable and Lingmell.

The Scafells from Greendale.

Middle Fell.

Buckbarrow...

...looking Autumnal.

Climbing up to Middle Fell...spot Casper? and Angus?

Clear view from Middle Fell today.

Yewbarrow.

Lingmell, Scafell Pike and Scafell across Wast Water.

Looking north to Red Pike from the summit of Middle Fell.

Casper and Angus are enjoying it - it's colder than it looks though, the tops are below freezing.

Sellafield with the Isle of Man looming large behind.

Scafell Pike.

The Scafells.

Angus in golden light...

...and Casper.

It's getting brighter as the sun gets higher.

Haycock.

Haycock and Scoat Fell.

The view from the ascent of Seatallan.

Scoat Fell and Red Pike.

Closer up on Red Pike. Scoat Tarn is in the hollow towards the top left.

Kirk Fell and Great Gable from Seatallan.

Lank Rigg and Caw Fell.

Haycock across Pots of Ashness.

The summit plateau of Seatallan is like a lawn.

The Tumulus and trig. column on Seatallan, the Scafells still in view.

Descending Seatallan.

Greendale Tarn and Middle Fell.

...and from further down.

Greendale Tarn - not quite as warm or green as it was here

Cascades on Greendale Gill.

Illuminated by the midday sun, the Scafells now appear golden.

Middle Fell

Walked on 18/07/2006

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Middle Fell – Greendale Tarn – Greendale Gill – Greendale

Distance: 3 miles Total Ascent: 560 metres Time Taken: 2 hours

Weather: Scorching – again! 28oC.

It seems to be getting hotter by the day at the moment and it was in the high twenties when I set off this morning. Too hot for Angus I think – today he was left at home to sit in the shade. The relentless slog to Middle Fell was quite tough with the sight of Greendale Tarn being a relief for both Casper and I – neither of us could resist getting in there!

Middle Fell from Wasdale.

Yewbarrow.

Buckbarrow from Greendale, the start of the walk.

A hot Casper on the climb to Middle Fell.

The giants of Wasdale from the summit of Middle Fell.

Lingmell, Scafell and Scafell Pike.

Nice view from here.

Haycock, Scoat Fell and Red Pike from the summit of Middle Fell.

Wasdale and the west Cumbrian coast.

Seatallan and an inviting looking Greendale Tarn.

Haycock.

Straight in, no messing for the paddler...very closely followed by yours truly!

Do things get any better than this? A cool, lonely mountain tarn to swim in on a baking hot day...

...heaven on earth. In a strange human/dog twist, Casper sat on the banks of Greendale Tarn whilst I had a swim. Now, if only I could teach him how to use a camera!

Looking up to Seatallan - so near, yet so far in the baking heat.

Looking back up to Middle Fell from Greendale Gill.

Waterfall on Greendale Gill.

Greendale Gill and valley.

The Scafells from the descent.

Yewbarrow, Great Gable and Lingmell at the head of Wast Water.

Middle Fell

Walked on 17/02/2006

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Greendale Gill – Greendale Tarn – Middle Fell – Greendale

Distance: 3 miles Total Ascent: 560 metres Time Taken: 1 hour 30 minutes

Weather: Generally overcast but getting brighter through the afternoon. 8°C

I had another short walk in Wasdale this afternoon, the weather brightening up nicely by the end and the clouds lifting from the higher tops by the time I returned to Greendale. It was surprisingly warm on this walk although the higher fells still sport snow capped peaks.

A snow topped Great Gable at the head of Wast Water.

Middle Fell, today's objective.

Buckbarrow at the start of the walk.

The Screes - Illgill Head on the left and Whin Rigg on the right.

Who's a handsome boy then? A remarkably clean Angus - this must be at the start!

Angus leads the way along Greendale Gill.

Greendale Gill is roaring today.

Plenty of pools for a dip and a drink.

Greendale Tarn.

A misty topped Haycock.

Looking down on Greendale Tarn from the steep climb up to Middle Fell.

The view from Middle Fell - Kirk Fell and Great Gable behind Yewbarrow with Glaramara in the distance and Lingmell in cloud to the right.

Glaramara over Yewbarrow.

Lingmell and Scafell lost in cloud and the head of Wast Water.

The Ravenglass Estuary from Middle Fell.

Angus on Middle Fell.

Red Pike from Middle Fell, Low Tarn in the centre.

The Screes looking dark and angry.

Lingmell, Scafell and The Screes.

A close up of Lingmell.

The clouds started to lift by the end of the walk and the sun shone on occasions - who could resist this classic shot along Wast Water?

Seatallan

Walked on 29/06/2004

Start point: Greendale (NY 144 056)

Greendale – Buckbarrow (79) – Glade How (80) – Cat Bields – Seatallan (81) – Greendale Tarn – Middle Fell (82) – Greendale

Weather: Mist and rain.

Today’s walk is to some of the unfashionable fells overlooking Wast Water; Buckbarrow, Seatallan and Middle Fell. When I completed this round last year, it was teeming with rain and I really wanted to do theses fells in nice, clear weather. However….

I parked at Greendale by the side of the road and followed the tarmac west to Harrow Head. The path to Buckbarrow isn’t obvious from the road; it is a grassy track between the wall and Gill Beck immediately before the road triangle at Harrow Head. If you walk slightly past Harrow Head and look over the wall, you will see the hidden Tosh Tarn.

Gill Beck waterfall on the ascent to Buckbarrow.

Tosh Tarn from further up the path. At the top of the path, the crags to the right of the summit are worth climbing for the view of Wast Water - if it is clear! From this point, the summit is across the dip on a rocky knoll.

Wast Water through the mist from Buckbarrow. From Buckbarrow, head north for Glade How where there is a prominent cairn. From Glade How, the next target is Cat Bields which lies to the north west and here lies another cairn which marks the ascent of Seatallan.

Cairn on Glade How..

and Cat Bields

Seatallan summit - no views today then! The large pile of stones is an ancient burial mound, reputed to be 1000 years old. From Seatallan, I headed east to the hause marked on the map at 465 metres. From here I made a slight detour south to Greendale Tarn, back to the hause for the easy ascent to the summit of Middle Fell.

Greendale Tarn. Beware of the bogs on Middle Fell - I fell in up to my waist on here!

Middle Fell summit...

and Wast Water appears through the mist on the descent, right. A long descent from Middle Fell, the path meets up with the one from Greendale Tarn and from here it's a direct descent southwards to Greendale.

Buckbarrow from the descent of Middle Fell.

Cascades, Tongues Gills from the descent of Middle Fell.